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74

MONSTER

Star Icon

Samurai Warriors 5

2021
GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer
AvailableJul 27, 2021
PlatformPC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X
DeveloperKoei Tecmo Games
Overview

Experience exhilarating action set in a dramatic historical setting in SAMURAI WARRIORS 5. As the latest numbered entry in the SAMURAI WARRIORS franchise, the story, characters, and visuals have been re-imagined to set the stage for a thrilling new series. The story takes place after the Ōnin War during the golden age of the Sengoku period, and features a story that centers on the lives of two of the most representative military commanders of this era: Nobunaga Oda and Mitsuhide Akechi.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

75

TL;DR

Samurai Warriors 5 shines with sharp character dynamics and historical flair, especially Nobunaga and Mitsuhide’s fraught bond, but falters with repetitive beats, revisionist history, and uneven storytelling—a polarizing mix of ambition and execution gaps.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

75

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Samurai Warriors 5 receives praise for its focused narrative and engaging character dynamics, particularly highlighting the relationship between Nobunaga Oda and Mitsuhide Akechi. Critics like Siliconera and Nintendo Life commend the game’s political intrigue, surprise alliances, and stylish cutscenes that bring characters to life, while PC Invasion applauds the “well-conceived, lively version of the story” with chapters dedicated to both protagonists. The game’s emphasis on historical context and character development is noted as a significant improvement, with Eurogamer Italy calling the narrative a “strong point” and TheXboxHub praising its unique spin on Nobunaga Oda. Additionally, GameMAG highlights the personalized storyline centered on historical figures, and Shacknews appreciates the focus on Nobunaga’s early aspirations and his evolving relationship with Mitsuhide Akechi. These reviews suggest the game succeeds in crafting a compelling, if narrow, story that resonates with fans of the series. However, several critics criticize Samurai Warriors 5 for its uneven execution and narrative shortcomings. Jeuxvideo.com (PC) and Multiplayer.it describe the storytelling as “lackluster” and “not very exciting,” while GameCritics points to a “lack of rationale for character betrayals” and a revisionist take on history that feels unconvincing. Nintendo World Report finds the historical details overwhelming, and DarkZero notes repetitive story beats despite more fleshed-out characters. IGN (PC) and Jeuxvideo.com (Switch) also mention the narrative’s predictability and repetition for series veterans, while GAMES.CH compares the exaggerated characters to “modern superheroes,” undermining the historical authenticity. These critiques highlight a disconnect between the game’s ambitious storytelling goals and its execution, particularly in balancing depth with accessibility. Overall, critics agree that Samurai Warriors 5 represents a step forward in narrative focus compared to earlier entries, but it remains polarizing due to its strengths and weaknesses. While Siliconera, PC Invasion, and TheXboxHub celebrate the game’s refined storytelling and character exploration, others like Jeuxvideo.com and GameCritics feel it falls short in originality and emotional depth. The consensus leans toward a middle ground: the story is more polished and engaging than previous titles, with a stronger emphasis on Nobunaga and Mitsuhide’s dynamic, but its narrow scope, repetitive elements, and occasional historical liberties prevent it from fully satisfying all audiences. Despite these flaws, many reviewers acknowledge that Samurai Warriors 5 offers a compelling entry in the series for those interested in its historical themes and character-driven approach.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Samurai Warriors 5 shines with sharp character dynamics and historical flair, especially Nobunaga and Mitsuhide’s fraught bond, but falters with repetitive beats, revisionist history, and uneven storytelling—a polarizing mix of ambition and execution gaps.

79

TL;DR

Samurai Warriors 5 delivers slick, combo-driven combat with hyper attacks and ultimate skills that thrill, but its repetitive missions, lackluster innovation, and easy difficulty undermine its potential, offering a safe evolution for fans rather than a bold leap.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

79

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

1%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Samurai Warriors 5 receives largely positive reception for its refined combat mechanics and engaging action. Critics highlight the game’s emphasis on fast-paced hack-and-slash gameplay, with a focus on combos, hyper attacks, and ultimate skills that add depth and variety. For instance, Attack of the Fanboy praises the “remarkably satisfying” chain of Hyper Attacks, Ultimate Skills, and Musou moves, while God is a Geek notes the thrill of “sending dozens of enemies flying” with powerful strikes. The introduction of new mechanics like Ultimate Skills, Hyper Attacks, and customizable abilities (e.g., Shindig and GameGrin) is frequently lauded for revitalizing the formula. Additionally, TheXboxHub and IGN commend the game’s mission variety and strategic elements, such as Citadel Mode and character progression, which offer players flexibility in approach. The combat’s fluidity and accessibility are also praised, with Windows Central noting the “fluid and cathartic” gameplay and Pure Nintendo highlighting the blend of strategy and skill required for higher difficulties. However, several critics point to repetitive elements and a lack of innovation as significant drawbacks. Cubed3 (Switch) and The Games Machine both criticize the game’s tendency to become monotonous, with the latter calling it “potentially banal” for fans of the genre. PC Invasion argues that the gameplay is “almost identical to the previous game,” offering little new, while GameMAG notes the lack of aggressive enemies makes the experience too easy even on higher difficulties. Issues like constant objective shifts (e.g., Cubed3’s annoyance at the “annoying horn signal”) and repetitive mission structures (e.g., Jeuxvideo.com’s mention of “repetitive nature of missions”) further detract from the experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as PC Invasion and The Games Machine, find the combat mechanics rigid or archaic, suggesting that the game’s reliance on familiar formulas may not appeal to all players. Overall, critics agree that Samurai Warriors 5 is a solid entry in the series, balancing refined mechanics with nostalgic familiarity. While it retains the core Musou gameplay that fans expect—such as large-scale battles and combo-driven combat—many praise its improvements, including Attack of the Fanboy’s emphasis on “refined take on the formula” and GameCritics’ note of a “smooth and well-tuned” experience. However, the consensus leans toward it being a safe evolution rather than a radical departure, with PC Invasion and The Games Machine highlighting its lack of innovation. Despite these criticisms, the game’s accessibility, variety in weapons/characters, and satisfying combat loops (as noted by Shindig and God is a Geek) ensure it remains enjoyable for series veterans, even if it doesn’t fully break new ground.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Samurai Warriors 5 delivers slick, combo-driven combat with hyper attacks and ultimate skills that thrill, but its repetitive missions, lackluster innovation, and easy difficulty undermine its potential, offering a safe evolution for fans rather than a bold leap.

79

TL;DR

Samurai Warriors 5 dazzles with a vibrant, manga-influenced cel-shaded aesthetic rooted in traditional Japanese art, but technical flaws on lower-tier platforms—like aliasing, reduced details, and framerate hiccups—dampen its polish, despite universal acclaim for its cultural flair and stylish presentation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

79

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Samurai Warriors 5 have been widely praised for their distinctive cel-shaded art style, which draws heavily from traditional Japanese aesthetics. Critics consistently highlight the game’s vibrant, manga-inspired character designs, ink-brush textures, and sumi-e influences, creating a visually striking experience that sets it apart from previous entries in the series. For instance, Shindig lauds the "gorgeous cel-shaded art style" influenced by manga, ukiyo-e, and modern art, while IGN notes the "distinct visual flair" of ink-and-paint-inspired designs. The cel-shading technique is frequently compared to Japanese animation and comic book styles, with Jeuxvideo.com describing it as "refreshing and reminiscent of Japanese animation," and Cubed3 calling it the "best-looking Samurai Warriors title to date." Additionally, the game’s colorful environments and dynamic battle effects—such as bold brushstrokes and hyper-stylized Kanji characters—are celebrated for their cultural authenticity and artistic charm, as noted by PlayStation LifeStyle and Gamer Escape. Despite these positives, several critics point out technical and platform-specific limitations that detract from the visual experience. Jeuxvideo.com (on PS4/PC/Xbox) criticizes issues like aliasing, empty environments, and "technical limitations," while The Mako Reactor highlights compromises on the Nintendo Switch, such as reduced shadow quality, draw distance, and resolution. GamingTrend notes framerate dips in handheld mode, and Eurogamer Italy mentions that some characters may be unrecognizable to longtime fans. Additionally, IGN Italia points out camera and polygonal structure issues, while RPG Fan observes that environments "could have received more attention." These critiques suggest that while the art style is innovative, technical constraints—particularly on lower-powered platforms like the Switch—sometimes undermine the overall polish. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the game’s visual design being hailed as a fresh and culturally rich evolution for the series. While platform-specific technical issues and minor graphical shortcomings are acknowledged, the cel-shaded aesthetic and traditional Japanese influences are universally praised for their creativity and charm. IGN, Shindig, and Cubed3 emphasize that the art style, though not AAA-level, offers a "distinct visual flair" and "stylish" presentation that enhances the gameplay. Even critics like The Mako Reactor and Jeuxvideo.com acknowledge that these compromises are forgivable given the game’s appeal to handheld enthusiasts and its dedication to cultural authenticity. The combination of artistic innovation and functional design has solidified Samurai Warriors 5 as a visually memorable entry in the franchise, despite its technical imperfections.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Samurai Warriors 5 dazzles with a vibrant, manga-influenced cel-shaded aesthetic rooted in traditional Japanese art, but technical flaws on lower-tier platforms—like aliasing, reduced details, and framerate hiccups—dampen its polish, despite universal acclaim for its cultural flair and stylish presentation.

74

TL;DR

Samurai Warriors 5’s soundtrack dazzles with traditional Japanese flair and eclectic fusion, yet repetitive tracks and no English voice acting tarnish its appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

74

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The Sound Design and Music of Samurai Warriors 5 received generally positive feedback from critics, with many praising its immersive and culturally resonant approach. Reviewers like GameGrin highlighted the traditional-sounding music that enhances the game’s historical atmosphere, while COGconnected and RPG Fan celebrated the eclectic mix of traditional Japanese instruments, modern synths, and rock elements, noting how it adds depth to both narrative and action sequences. BaziCenter and Noisy Pixel commended the game’s artistic evolution, emphasizing how the music aligns with its Japanese setting and delivers a “noticeable performance” through Japanese voice acting. Additionally, Xbox Tavern and God is a Geek praised the upbeat tempo and choreography, calling the soundtrack a “treat for the ears.” The use of orchestral arrangements and traditional instruments like taiko drums or shamisen was frequently cited as a strength, creating an authentic aesthetic that complements the game’s historical themes. However, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks. DarkZero and Jeuxvideo.com (PC) criticized the soundtrack for becoming repetitive over time, with some tracks feeling overused during extended gameplay. The lack of English voice acting was another recurring issue, as noted by Attack of the Fanboy, Windows Central, and Multiplayer.it, who emphasized that subtitles—available only in English—can be hard to follow during fast-paced battles. Gamer Escape specifically lamented the absence of the electronica-style music from previous entries, calling it an “unnecessary change.” Additionally, while Jeuxvideo.com (PS4) and Jeuxvideo.com (Switch) acknowledged the orchestral elements, they noted that repetition diminished the experience. These critiques suggest that while the soundtrack is thematically strong, its longevity and accessibility for non-Japanese speakers were seen as limitations. Overall, critics largely agreed that Samurai Warriors 5’s Sound Design and Music successfully evoke a traditional Japanese atmosphere through orchestral and instrumental elements, even if some found it repetitive or lacking in diversity. The absence of English voice acting was a significant drawback for many, though BaziCenter and The Mako Reactor acknowledged the quality of Japanese voice work. While COGconnected and RPG Fan appreciated the experimentation with musical styles, others like Gamer Escape felt the shift away from previous trends was unwise. Despite these mixed reactions, the consensus leaned toward appreciation for the soundtrack’s cultural authenticity and its role in enhancing the game’s immersive experience, even if it didn’t fully satisfy all expectations.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Samurai Warriors 5’s soundtrack dazzles with traditional Japanese flair and eclectic fusion, yet repetitive tracks and no English voice acting tarnish its appeal.

67

TL;DR

Samurai Warriors 5's Japanese voice acting is a standout strength, praised for its energy, authenticity, and immersion, with critics like Multiplayer.it and BaziCenter calling it "well interpreted" and "commendable." However, non-Japanese speakers face hurdles: subtitles are hard to follow in fast-paced action, and the lack of English voice options or localization limits accessibility. While the vocal performances elevate the game's atmosphere, their effectiveness is undermined by language barriers, making the experience a mixed bag—rich in style but flawed in inclusivity.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

67

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Samurai Warriors 5 receives generally positive feedback from multiple reviewers, who praise its quality and immersion despite language barriers. Critics like Multiplayer.it highlight that the Japanese voice acting is "well interpreted," while BaziCenter and Noisy Pixel commend the "commendable job" and "standout performances" by Japanese voice actors, respectively. PlayStation LifeStyle notes that the fully voiced cutscenes with English subtitles enhance the experience, and SpazioGames and The Mako Reactor describe the voice acting as simply "good" or "complemented well by the music." These reviews emphasize that the vocal performances contribute to the game’s atmospheric depth, even if they are not in a player’s native language. The presence of recognizable voice actors and energetic delivery—such as the "over-the-top" style mentioned by Finger Guns—adds to the game’s theatrical charm. However, several critics point out significant drawbacks related to accessibility and clarity. Attack of the Fanboy and GAMES.CH note that while Japanese voice acting is effective in cutscenes, it can be challenging to follow during fast-paced gameplay, especially for non-Japanese speakers. Windows Central and Vandal highlight the reliance on subtitles, which "can be difficult to catch during hectic action sequences," undermining immersion. ZTGD and Everyeye.it also mention that the lack of English voice acting or localized options (like Italian in the latter’s case) creates a barrier for players unfamiliar with Japanese. These critiques underscore a recurring issue: while the voice work itself is strong, its effectiveness is limited by language constraints and the absence of alternative audio options. The overall consensus among critics leans toward appreciation for the voice acting’s quality but acknowledges its limitations for non-Japanese audiences. Most reviewers agree that the Japanese vocal performances are well-executed and add to the game’s authenticity, as noted by Multiplayer.it, BaziCenter, and Noisy Pixel. However, the lack of English voice acting and subtitle challenges during action remain persistent criticisms, with Windows Central and Vandal emphasizing how this detracts from accessibility. While some players may find the language barrier manageable, others—particularly those seeking fully localized audio—may feel excluded. Ultimately, Samurai Warriors 5’s voice acting is a mixed bag: a technical strength that shines in narrative moments but falters in practicality for broader audiences.

TL;DR

voice acting

Samurai Warriors 5's Japanese voice acting is a standout strength, praised for its energy, authenticity, and immersion, with critics like Multiplayer.it and BaziCenter calling it "well interpreted" and "commendable." However, non-Japanese speakers face hurdles: subtitles are hard to follow in fast-paced action, and the lack of English voice options or localization limits accessibility. While the vocal performances elevate the game's atmosphere, their effectiveness is undermined by language barriers, making the experience a mixed bag—rich in style but flawed in inclusivity.

71

TL;DR

Samurai Warriors 5 delivers mixed but largely solid performance across platforms: PC and PS4 shine with stable 60fps and smooth battles, while Switch offers smooth docked play despite handheld hiccups. Xbox One struggles with load times and glitches, and PS4 faces camera issues. Despite minor technical flaws, the game marks a step forward in optimization over previous entries.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

71

Positive Reviews (80-100)

34%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

5%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Samurai Warriors 5 varies across platforms, with several positives highlighted by critics. On PC, the game is widely praised for its optimization, with DarkZero noting a steady 60fps at 4K resolution, while Eurogamer Italy and Multiplayer.it emphasize stable frame rates and smooth handling of large-scale battles. PC Invasion and Jeuxvideo.com also commend the lack of technical issues, though some mention minor camera-related visibility problems. For PS4, multiple reviewers like Hobby Consolas, PlayStation LifeStyle, and Player 2 highlight consistent 60fps performance with no significant slowdowns, while IGN Italia and Hardcore Gamer note stable frame rates despite dense enemy crowds. On Nintendo Switch, critics such as Nintendo Life and Nintendo Insider praise smooth gameplay in docked mode, with Shindig and Pure Nintendo acknowledging that fidelity drops are manageable. The Xbox One version receives mixed feedback, but Generación Xbox and Jeuxvideo.com affirm its stable 60fps, though some note camera glitches and loading issues. However, technical shortcomings are evident across platforms. On PC, Eurogamer Italy and Jeuxvideo.com mention environmental pop-up and camera visibility issues, while PC Invasion’s critique of tougher enemy AI is more gameplay-focused than technical. For Xbox One, Everyeye.it criticizes long load times and poor anti-aliasing, and Windows Central highlights framerate stutter during intense battles. On PS4, GameMAG reports occasional frame drops, while GameOver.gr and Vandal note camera glitches and clipping issues that detract from immersion. The Nintendo Switch version faces challenges: Cubed3 and GamingTrend cite texture downgrades and frame rate dips in handheld mode, while NintendoWorldReport mentions enemy pop-in. The Mako Reactor also points to fluctuating performance in co-op splitscreen, though they acknowledge it as one of the better Switch ports for the series. Overall, critics generally agree that Samurai Warriors 5 delivers solid technical performance on most platforms, with PC and PS4 versions excelling in stability and frame consistency. The Xbox One version is praised for its stable 60fps but suffers from visual and loading issues, while the Nintendo Switch version balances smooth gameplay in docked mode with compromises in handheld performance. While some platforms face minor technical hiccups—such as camera problems on PS4 or pop-in on Xbox One—the consensus is that the game’s core mechanics remain intact, with many reviewers highlighting its improved optimization compared to previous entries in the series. The Switch version, though less visually ambitious, is deemed a strong port despite its limitations, reflecting a broader trend of technical refinement across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Samurai Warriors 5 delivers mixed but largely solid performance across platforms: PC and PS4 shine with stable 60fps and smooth battles, while Switch offers smooth docked play despite handheld hiccups. Xbox One struggles with load times and glitches, and PS4 faces camera issues. Despite minor technical flaws, the game marks a step forward in optimization over previous entries.

71

TL;DR

Samurai Warriors 5 offers deep replayability through diverse modes and progression systems but is weighed down by repetitive gameplay, a lack of innovation, and formulaic design, splitting opinions between series veterans and newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

71

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

2%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The reviewers generally acknowledge that Samurai Warriors 5 offers a range of replayable elements, particularly through its multiple modes and progression systems. Critics like IGN highlight the inclusion of Free Mode, allowing players to revisit missions with unlocked characters, while Citadel Mode provides defense-focused challenges and resource management, adding depth for those who enjoy grinding. Nintendo Life praises the game’s replayability via hidden objectives, S-ranks, and varied character unlockables, emphasizing that "levels are highly replayable." Additionally, GameCritics and Eurogamer Italy note the satisfaction of character progression, with RPG elements like leveling up and customization options creating a sense of growth. The presence of co-op play (as mentioned by Screen Rant and GameSpew) and the ability to experiment with different characters further enhance its longevity, making it appealing for fans seeking extended engagement. However, several critics point out significant drawbacks that undermine the game’s replay value. PC Invasion and SpazioGames criticize the lack of innovation in movesets and character variety, arguing that longtime fans may find the formulaic gameplay stale. Attack of the Fanboy and GamingTrend describe Citadel Mode as repetitive and tedious, with its grinding mechanics clashing against the game’s fast-paced action. Cubed3 and GamingBolt lament the absence of features like Chronicle Mode, which previously offered unique customization, while Multiplayer.it and Jeuxvideo.com note that bland environments and AI shortcomings exacerbate the monotony. Even positive aspects like character progression (as highlighted by Nintenderos) are tempered by complaints about slow unlock rates and repetitive mission structures, suggesting that the game’s core loop may not sustain interest for all players. Overall, the consensus leans toward a balanced view: while Samurai Warriors 5 provides substantial replay value through its modes, progression systems, and customization options, these elements are often offset by repetition and a lack of innovation. IGN, GameSpew, and Pure Nintendo emphasize that the game’s content justifies its purchase for series fans, but critics like PC Invasion and Attack of the Fanboy argue that its formulaic design may alienate those seeking fresh experiences. The game’s strengths lie in its accessibility and depth for dedicated players, yet its weaknesses—particularly in pacing and originality—mean it appeals more to enthusiasts than newcomers. Ultimately, the reviews reflect a divide between those who value the series’ familiar mechanics and those who prioritize variety and innovation.

TL;DR

replay value

Samurai Warriors 5 offers deep replayability through diverse modes and progression systems but is weighed down by repetitive gameplay, a lack of innovation, and formulaic design, splitting opinions between series veterans and newcomers.

Overall verdict

Overall Verdict

74

MONSTER

Star Icon

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

74

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

1%

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall reception of Samurai Warriors 5 highlights its strengths as a polished and engaging entry in the Musou genre. Critics consistently praise its streamlined gameplay, updated graphics, and fresh artistic direction, which breathe new life into the series. NME commends the game’s “streamlined gameplay” and “strange weapons,” while IGN France notes its “variety of techniques” and “well-developed roster of characters.” The narrative is also a standout, with RPG Fan calling it a “polished and higher-budget entry” that reinvigorates the series, and The Mako Reactor highlighting its “great story focus” and “gorgeous aesthetic.” Additionally, the game’s accessibility for newcomers is emphasized by COGconnected, who describes it as an “excellent way to dive into the franchise,” and GameSpew hailing it as the “best entry in the series” with “luscious visuals.” The new art style, praised by Jeuxvideo.com and Generación Xbox, adds a distinctive flair that modernizes the franchise without losing its core identity. However, several critics point to notable shortcomings that temper the enthusiasm. Repetition and a lack of innovation are recurring critiques, with Cubed3 calling it a “shadow of its former self” and Attack of the Fanboy noting the “repetitive movesets” and “lackluster side content.” Technical issues also surface across platforms, as highlighted by Jeuxvideo.com (PC) and The Mako Reactor (PS4), which mention visual glitches and performance hiccups. Some reviewers feel the game’s scope is diminished compared to earlier entries, with NME noting its “smaller in scope” design and TheXboxHub acknowledging that the “core gameplay loop remains largely unchanged.” Additionally, MGG Spain and Cultured Vultures argue that the game adheres too closely to Musou conventions without introducing meaningful changes, while Starbit criticizes its “visual design [that] falls short of its potential.” These criticisms suggest a sense of missed opportunities in expanding the series’ creative boundaries. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus among critics is largely positive, with many viewing Samurai Warriors 5 as a strong, if not revolutionary, addition to the franchise. While some, like Comicbook.com, award it a perfect score for its “fulfilling experience,” others such as IGN and Siliconera emphasize its balance of accessibility and depth, calling it “safe but satisfying” and “compelling” respectively. The game’s ability to cater to both veterans and newcomers is widely acknowledged, with Nintendo Insider praising its “fun and satisfying experience” and Xbox Tavern recommending it for “veterans and those curious about the franchise.” Though not without flaws, the critical reception underscores its value as a cohesive, enjoyable entry in the Musou genre, with many hoping it will serve as a foundation for future growth. As ZTGD notes, the game’s “power fantasy” and historical appeal could attract new fans, even if it doesn’t fully break from the series’ established formula.

TL;DR

Samurai Warriors 5 dazzles with polished gameplay, bold art direction, and a gripping story, but repeats old tropes and stumbles on technical glitches, offering a safe yet uninspired entry in a genre longing for innovation.

74

MONSTER

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Reviews

122 reviews found

100

Comicbook.com

PlayStation 4

Jul 26, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review gives Samurai Warriors 5 a rating of 5 out of 5, stating that it is the best action game Koei Tecmo has released in quite a while and offers a fulfilling experience for both new and veteran players.

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Full review

100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Jul 26, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Samurai Warriors 5 is a refined, nuanced, and impactful entry in the series, deserving critical praise for its gameplay and narrative. It is Koei Tecmo's finest effort yet and may inspire players to learn more about Japanese history.

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Full review

100

GameGrin

PC

Aug 3, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is outstanding and a must-play title.

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Full review

95

Xbox Tavern

Xbox One

Jul 29, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Samurai Warriors 5 is recommended for veterans and those curious about the franchise. The reviewer praises the gameplay, story, graphics, and replay value.

Read full review

Full review

90

TouchArcade

Nintendo Switch

Aug 3, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The author gives it a score of 4.5/5.

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Full review

90

Shindig

Nintendo Switch

Aug 22, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Samurai Warriors 5 is a fantastic new direction for the series, with a compelling story, enjoyable gameplay, and stunning visual design. The technical performance on the Switch is a minor drawback, but it is still a highly recommended game.

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Full review

90

Siliconera

Nintendo Switch

Jul 26, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Samurai Warriors 5 offers a compelling story, satisfying gameplay, and a stunning visual style. It provides depth for those looking for it and is approachable for newcomers. It is chaotic yet focused and intriguing.

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Full review

85

Pure Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Aug 2, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Samurai Warriors 5 is a great game that refreshes the visuals and streamlines the roster. It is engaging and should thrill both old and new fans of the franchise.

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Full review

85

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 4

Jul 26, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Samurai Warriors 5 is a great return to the franchise's roots with vibrant character designs and a stronger emphasis on story.

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Full review

85

God is a Geek

PlayStation 4

Jul 26, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Samurai Warriors 5 is an incredibly solid Musou game with a great new look and satisfying combat. It may not bring anything new to the series, but it's hard to deny how much fun it is to play.

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